Fort Schuyler Magazine Spring 2020

Founder/Senior Partner, Horizon Engineering Associates, LLC Michael C. English ’90

licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in 1998, English and his firm began undertaking building commissioning projects around the country. His firm, celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, boasts a staff of 100 and a lengthy list of exciting and prominent projects throughout the United States. His success in business is firmly tied to his business philosophy: People deserve the right to work and live in buildings that are energy-efficient and operate correctly. English undertook a variety of major high-rise projects throughout NYC including providing building commissioning to the nation’s first green residential high-

Michael C. English graduated from Maritime College in 1990, earning a degree in marine engineering with a nuclear power option. The son of a merchant mariner, English knew since high school that he would pursue a

career as an engineer. “When I look back now, going to Maritime College was the best decision I ever made,” said English. Upon graduation, the native New Yorker with family roots in Long Island, took

rise building, which is now a model of sustainable design and construction principles. Upon learning of the World Trade Center Memorial project, English strongly pursued and was awarded the building

ALUMNUS SUPPORTS STUDENT SUCCESS THROUGH ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIPS

commissioning project for the Memorial. “I’m proud of the work we’ve accomplished because of its impact on the infrastructure of NYC. The World Trade Center Memorial is one of many projects that I am most proud to have completed,” stated English. Philanthropically, English seeks to impact Maritime College engineering students through his endowed scholarship. “Everyone has their own unique story and reasons for giving. Those who have utilized Maritime College and its resources should give to ensure the pipeline of future engineers remains full,” said English. His advice to current engineering students is: “You have a six-month lead [through Summer Sea Term] ahead of all the engineering students in other colleges. They will catch up to you. It’s up to you to maintain that lead, lose that lead or extend that lead.” The scholarship English provides to Maritime College students demonstrates his commitment to the College, the industry, and ensures students are fully prepared to excel in careers in engineering.

a position with a NYC company that represented steam control manufacturer Leslie Controls, Inc. There, English immersed himself in sales engineering and focused on the business aspect of a popular marine control valve that was used on many ships. The young engineer knew that the streets of Manhattan were lined with a steam distribution system that utilized the most popular Leslie Controls steam pressure reducing valve. His work with the system, which affected over 25% of all buildings in Manhattan, provided great exposure, and an opportunity to closely collaborate with system design engineers and building managers throughout the city. In 1995, English founded his own engineering firm, Horizon Engineering Associates, LLP (HEA), which specializes in building commissioning, consulting, and energy and sustainability services. He continued to work in engineering sales full-time while taking on performance testing projects after work and on the weekends. After becoming a NYS

22 | Fort Schuyler Alumni Magazine Spring 2020